Galactosemia

Definition

Classic galactosemia type I
is a metabolic disorder. It causes a low level or lack of an enzyme called galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase. This enzyme changes galactose to glucose. Galactose is a simple sugar found in milk products. Glucose is the usable form of sugar in the human body.

Since there is not enough of the enzyme, galactose builds up in the blood. This build up can cause severe damage to the liver, kidneys, central nervous system, and other body systems. If undetected, galactosemia is fatal.

Type II is
a less severe form of this disease
due to low levels of
galactose kinase. This type may be managed with a few dietary restrictions. It does not carry the risk of neurologic or liver damage.

Type III is a form with variable severity due to low levels of galactose epimerase. This type can cause cataracts, delayed growth and development, intellectual disability, liver disease, and kidney problems.

This sheet will focus on classic
galactosemia.

Causes

Galactosemia is a genetic condition. It is caused by faulty genes that are inherited from both parents. A normal copy of these genes is needed to make the enzyme correctly.

Risk Factors

The primary risk factor is having parents who carry the gene for galactosemia.

Symptoms

An infant with classic galactosemia usually appears normal at birth. Symptoms usually occur within the first few days or weeks of life after the baby drinks breastmilk or a lactose-containing formula.

Diagnosis

Most United States infants are screened for galactosemia at birth. A small sample of blood is taken with a heel prick. It is also possible to diagnose galactosemia during pregnancy with an
amniocentesis. This test is only done if the baby is at high risk for an illness or condition.

Your doctor may also
suspect galactosemia after a urine test. The diagnosis can be confirmed with a blood test,
including enzyme levels, or with a
biopsy
of the liver or other tissues.

Treatment

Galactosemia cannot be cured. Steps can be taken to prevent or minimize symptoms and complications.

Diet

Avoid all products that contain or produce galactose.
This includes milk or milk by-products, such as:

Formula

Breast milk

Milk

Casein

Lactose—milk sugar

Dry milk solids

Curds

Whey

Galactose can also be found in some non-milk products, such as:

Fermented soy products

Legumes

Organ meats

Tomato sauces

Lactose or galactose may be used as an additive in some food products. Therefore, always read food labels carefully in order to avoid these foods.
A dietitian with a specialty in galactosemia can help make a dietary plan.

Medications

Certain medications have galactose or lactose fillers. Check with your pharmacist before using medications.

Supplements

Avoid supplements unless prescribed by your doctor. Fillers and inactive ingredients, like galactose are not required to be listed in supplements. If you do take a supplement, ask your pharmacist if there is galactose or lactose in the product.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent galactosemia. You may consider genetic counseling if you have galactosemia or have a family history of the disorder. The counselor can help you determine the risk of passing the condition to your children.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.